Sweet Briar

The pub itself felt warm and cosy, with a real log fire, and we were shown to our table without any trouble. But the evening was a real letdown, and none of us wanted to go back. We’d booked for six on 15th November to celebrate three birthdays that fell on or near the date. We hadn’t told the pub, though our three birthday people wore silly badges and other diners commented on them. The pub didn’t make any attempt to mark the occasion, which was disappointing since places often do once they notice. The food was generally good, but the menu was already limited and a long list of items had run out. We only found that out after ordering drinks and looking at the menu for a while, when the waitress asked what we wanted. It would have been easier to tell us what was still available. Several things we’d wanted were missing, including chunky chips. My wife was asked if she wanted chips with her steak, chose chunky, and only then was told they’d run out. No one asked about allergies at any point, though one of us has a gluten intolerance. With so few options, we decided not to stay for dessert or coffee.

The woman behind the bar was rude and patronising, and left us embarrassed and upset. I’m 35 and was there with my partner and our six-year-old son for an early dinner. She asked my husband for ID, which he didn’t have physically with him. We tried to laugh it off and showed his passport and driving licence on his phone, but she loudly said she couldn’t serve us without physical ID. It was flattering to be age-checked, but her manner was completely unnecessary and unkind. She ruined our evening. :(

We’ll definitely return. We had a delicious lunch outside with our dogs, and the food was to die for. The service was quick and really friendly. This pub in the beautiful little town of Crondall has everything you’re looking for.

After a walk, we stopped in for lunch. The pub looks lovely and smart inside and out. Their ale was great, and the burger and chips were excellent. Would recommend.